Into How Many Articles May the Apostles Creed be Divided

This division has been standard in Catholic teaching for centuries (as noted in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, section 190, which references an ancient tradition from St. Ambrose symbolizing the fullness of the apostolic faith through the number of the Twelve Apostles).

Each “article” is a distinct truth or clause in the Creed. Here’s the common breakdown of the 12 articles:

1. I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
2. And in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
3. Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary.
4. Suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.
5. He descended into hell; on the third day he rose again from the dead.
6. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty.
7. From thence he shall come to judge the living and the dead.
8. I believe in the Holy Spirit.
9. The holy catholic Church, the communion of saints.
10. The forgiveness of sins.
11. The resurrection of the body.
12. And life everlasting. Amen.